This randomized phase III trial is studying how well combination chemotherapy works in treating young patients with newly diagnosed high-risk acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Drugs used in chemotherapy work in different ways to stop the growth of cancer cells, either by killing the cells or by stopping them from dividing. Giving more than one drug (combination chemotherapy) and giving the drugs in different doses and in different combinations may kill more cancer cells.

Key Eligibility

In order to be eligible to take part in this trial, patients must meet the following criteria: